Blackpool striker Luke Varney has admitted he is keen to turn his loan move into a permanent deal.

Varney is currently on loan to Blackpool from Derby, but the Premier League side have an agreement to buy the strikef for £500,000 at the end of the season.

"I definitely consider myself a proper Blackpool player. The lads have made me feel so welcome, and so have the gaffer and his assistant Steve Thompson - they are a brilliant management team," Varney told the Blackpool Gazette.

"This is probably the happiest part of my football career so far and I think that is reflected in my performances.

"If I can stay fit and healthy, and keep putting in these performances, then it will only be good for Blackpool and I'll be delighted."

Derby have an option to sell the striker to someone else in the January transfer window.

Varney added: "It isn't in my thoughts at all. My contract says that I am on loan at Blackpool until May 31.

"I know there is a little clause in there but I'm really hoping that doesn't come into effect because I would love to stay here and try to help the club achieve its dream of staying in this league.

"I've been getting a lot of good reports and people are saying nice things, but I put that straight to one side and look forward to the next game.

"I know Blackpool have paid a lot of money to have me here. I am really pleased they did that, and I'm just hoping I can keep producing good performances and repay the faith they have shown in me.

"I am so happy. It is a great club and I want to be a part of it for the long-haul, not just until January."